We all agree that we should seek to have less plastic in our lives. From the long-lasting environmental impact to the many ways microplastics can end up in our bodies, plastic doesn’t have too many benefits beyond convenience. We think about trying to recycle plastic packaging, not heating up plastic food containers in the microwave, and buying reusable water bottles, but one plastic-filled element of our lives that many fail to consider is our clothing.
If you have ever taken the time to look at the little tags inside your clothing, you’ll commonly notice polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc. We all know these terms, but many don’t know what these textiles consist of. These are considered synthetic textiles, meaning they are manufactured rather than naturally occurring. All these fabrics are derived almost purely from fossil fuels, chemical processes, and plastic, meaning the clothes that you wear that are made of these textiles are emitting microplastics into your skin, as well as having the same impact on the environment as any other form of plastic.
Many turn to these plastic-filled textiles mainly because they are cheaper to buy. While this is true, the cost of these products also includes lower quality. Synthetic fibers also allow for more customizable feels of the clothing; most of the stretchy clothes you see will be made from things like polyester or nylon. However, this is also a reason that these types of athletic or casual clothes typically don’t stand the test of time. The allure of synthetic clothing is purely quantity over quality. Yes, you can buy more, but they likely won’t hold up and are also rubbing plastic onto your body constantly.
The better, more sustainable option for clothing is always going to be clothes that are made from over 90% natural textiles. These include fibers like cotton, linen, silk, wool, etc. These types of fibers have natural breathability, moisture control, comfort, and durability properties. While natural clothes are much higher quality in their feel and can sustain that quality, there is also the benefit of knowing these clothes are biodegradable and do not harm the environment as much in the production process. There is also no plastic involved, meaning your skin will feel much better with this clothing on it.
100% natural fibered clothing exists, especially in pieces like cotton t-shirts, with many people seeking out clothes that are 80-90% natural, as they are more common and still hold the benefits that 100% natural ones do. The biggest reason it is hard to reach 100% is that many clothes use a little bit of spandex, Lycra, or polyester to make the fabric just a little stretchier for comfort. There are also soft, stretchy fibers out there that are considered synthetic, but come from viscose origins, meaning they are made from wood cellulose. These fibers include viscose, lyocell, rayon, and modal. Their production includes some chemical processes, meaning they cannot be considered natural, but many producers of these sorts of textiles aim to ensure that these are a better, more sustainable option for activewear, sleepwear, or just casual clothing.
Oftentimes, when people learn that their closet is made up mostly of plastic, they want to purge their clothes and buy all new ones; however, that is expensive and wasteful. The best option is to just be more mindful of buying clothing moving forward. Research the different textiles that are out there, where they come from, and what they are made of. Then, when shopping, think about whether what you’re buying is a sustainable, quality piece, or if you just feel like buying it because the price is right. Living a more sustainable, plastic-free, and eco-friendly life is all about thinking about the long-term impact that products will have on your life and on the environment. So, think about investing in quality pieces of clothing that you can carry with you for a long time and feel good about owning.
Edited and Reviewed by Kien Powell
